HT Bureau
DIPHU, May 17: The Autonomous State Demand Committee (ASDC) marked its 38th foundation day on Friday with celebrations held across various district committees in Hamren, Bakulia, Bokajan, and Diphu.
Established on May 17, 1986, the ASDC emerged as a regional political force dedicated to championing the cause of an Autonomous State encompassing the hill districts of Karbi Anglong, West Karbi Anglong, and NC Hills. Over the years, the party spearheaded a mass movement advocating for autonomy under Article 244(A) of the Indian Constitution.
While the desired goal remains elusive, a significant milestone was reached in 1995 when the party entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the central government, resulting in the devolution of more power to the Autonomous Councils of Karbi Anglong and NC Hills.
Addressing supporters at the ASDC central committee office, party president Chandra Kanta Terang expressed determination to reignite the momentum of the mass-based movement for autonomy.
“Today as we celebrate the 38th foundation day of the party, we held a meeting with the leaders of ASDC, Karbi Students Association (KSA) and Karbi Nimso Chingthur Asong (KNCA) to go on with the movement and to this all the leaders have agreed. After the parliamentary election ends the ASDC will continue with a series of movements,” Terang added.
Terang voiced concern over the exodus of several ASDC members to national parties, alleging their allegiance compromises the pursuit of autonomy. He also underscored demographic shifts, citing data from the 2011 national census revealing a decline in the Karbi population relative to Bengali and Hindi-speaking communities.
Beyond the quest for autonomy, Terang outlined pressing issues, including encroachments on Professional Grazing Land (PGR)/Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) land, inter-state and inter-district boundary disputes, and encroachment by Karbi communities near Kaziranga National Park.
In a plea for unity, Terang called upon all political parties and organisations to set aside differences and collaborate in achieving the common goal of autonomy.
The foundation day celebration included the hoisting of the ASDC flag and paying homage to departed leaders, with notable attendees including ASDC publicity secretary Daniel Teron, Diphu District Committee in charge Ramsing Tokbi, KNCA general secretary Kajek Tokbipi, and other dignitaries.
